The internet has opened up a whole new world of marketing methods to the small business owner. It seems that almost every day, a new marketing tool or marketing strategy has been invented!
It is impossible to go through every marketing tool available, but the following are a few ‘must-have’ marketing tools for a small business owner, looking to market their business on the internet:
A Website: This may seem like a funny answer; if you want to market your business online, you most likely have a website already. However, putting a website up on the web isn’t the same as using your website as a marketing tool.
First of all, is your website attractive and user friendly? Will your visitors be able to find the information they are looking for? You can also do a few things to make your website stand out in the search engines, such as adding page titles and meta tags, and keywords. We don’t have the space to dive into the specifics of that in this article, but if you perform a Google search on those topics, you’ll find some guides and “how-to’s.”
A Blog: Again, you may already have a blog, but you may not be using it as effectively as possible. A blog is a great way to connect with your customers and give them a glimpse of the “real you.” You don’t want to get too personal on your business blog, but it is okay to express your natural feelings about various business topics. And don’t forget to write in your natural tone – leave the business writing for your website.
A Mailing List: Your mailing list can be the lifeblood of your business. This is made up of people who have asked to receive information from you. You can use your mailing list as a marketing tool by sending them messages about new products or services you are offering, as well as any sales or specials you are holding.
An Autoresponder: The easiest way to stay in contact with your mailing list is through an autoresponder. An autoresponder is a service that allows you to create lists and sign up forms.
There are many autoresponder systems to choose from, and for the most part, they are all easy to navigate. The service will give you some HTML code to paste on your website or blog. This code creates a sign up box or form that will be displayed to your visitors. When they enter their name and email into the form, they will automatically be added to your mailing list.
When you want to email your mailing list, you simply type the message once, load it into your autoresponder and the service will send it out to everyone on your list.
Social Networks: There are many social network sites on the web, such as www.facebook.com and www.linkedin.com. These sites allow you to connect and network with people all over the world. It is similar to traditional networking done through places such as The Chamber of Commerce, only more convenient, as you can do it from home in your pajamas.
You can use these networks as a marketing tool by establishing relationships with other business owners. The people you meet on these sites could end up being your next clients or business partners.
There are just a few of the tools available to small business owners looking to market their businesses on the internet. By making the most of these tools, you will be expanding your business across the globe.
Written By: Angela Wills, Internet Business Trainer
